SALT LAKE CITY — A concerning health outbreak has emerged at the Utah State Prison, where one inmate has tested positive for scabies, prompting immediate testing and treatment for 140 additional inmates. The outbreak was confirmed on Friday by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services.

The infected inmate resides in the Currant geriatric building unit, which is designated for older, medically dependent men living in four-bed pods. In response to the positive case, the unit has been placed under strict quarantine to prevent further spread.

While some inmates in two sections of the unit have tested negative for the parasitic infestation, they will still receive treatment as a precautionary measure. Authorities stated that restrictions on inmate visits and volunteer services to this particular unit are anticipated to be lifted by Monday.

The treatment protocol follows guidelines established by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which includes thorough washing of clothing and bedding with disinfectants. The health department is actively providing education on hygiene and effective measures to prevent the spread of scabies among inmates and staff alike.

Scabies, caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin, leads to intense itching and skin irritation. The condition is primarily spread through prolonged skin-to-skin contact, making its containment crucial in communal living environments like prisons.

Additionally, it has been noted by health officials that there have been ongoing issues with a non-contagious skin rash—potentially triggered by laundry detergent—in various units at the prison, complicating the identification of scabies cases without proper testing.

This outbreak raises broader questions about the health infrastructure in correctional facilities and the ongoing need for effective sanitation and healthcare measures to protect the well-being of inmates. What can we learn from this incident to prevent similar outbreaks in the future?